General Info

You've come to a special place. We believe that Santa Monica College offers an outstanding and unique educational experience. We also believe that we provide the community a wealth of resources. What makes us special? Aside from our academic excellence, we have features unique to us - ranging from the state-of-the-art John Drescher Planetarium, the beautiful Broad Stage at Santa Monica College, a premiere performing arts venue, and the Academy of Entertainment & Technology. Santa Monica College - a two-year community college accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges - opened in 1929 with just 153 students. It has now grown to a thriving campus with approximately 30, 000 students and offerings in more than 80 fields of study. We have an impressive academic record. We are the leader among the state's 110 community colleges in transferring students to University of California, University of Southern California and other four-year campuses. We also pride ourselves on preparing students for careers of the 21st century - in such fields as nursing, solar technology, new media, computer technology, early childhood education, business, graphic design and other occupations. Santa Monica College is one of the most affordable institutions of higher education in the world. Tuition is only $26 a unit for California residents. And we have an active Financial Aid office that will help you get the funds you need to pay for your college education. Set on a 38-acre main campus less than two miles from the beach and several nearby satellite campuses, Santa Monica College has everything today's student needs to succeed - computer labs, athletic facilities, performing and visual arts spaces, and active student clubs. Our state-of-the-art facilities have won numerous architectural and sustainability awards, as has our beautiful Quad with fountains, palm trees and benches. Our award-winning faculty works closely with students to ensure their success, and we have numerous student services to help students meet their goals. Our academic excellence and prime location in a vibrant urban area attract students from all over the world. Santa Monica College boasts one of the largest international student populations of any community college in the nation, with approximately 3, 000 from more than 100 countries. Members of our community are invited to take advantage of a wealth of cultural and recreational offerings, including concerts, plays, art and photo shows, and lectures. The college has attracted world renowned speakers, including President Clinton. Our Continuing & Community Education program offers year round a broad range of classes - in such fields as computers, career enhancement, the arts, self development, and fitness. Our widely praised Emeritus College was founded in 1974 to serve people 55 and older by offering classes in downtown Santa Monica and conveniently located community facilities.